William "Bill" Leszinske's Obituary
After a long battle with his health, William “Bill” Leszinske, age 65, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on July 1, 2024. He is now free in the arms of Jesus. Raised in Ravenna, MI, Bill participated in football, basketball, and track. He was also an active member of the FFA, participating in state and National competitions. Following graduation, Bill played football at Saginaw Valley State College, where he majored in education with a focus on American History. He was a true patriot.
Throughout his life, Bill could be found manning the grill or the smoker, or in the kitchen. His passion for cooking and hosting began with his work-study position at SVSC, leading to his career with ARA, now Aramark, where he later returned to and retired from in 2022. One of Bill’s most told stories from his time with ARA was giving students a taste of home by recreating their favorite family meals. A hard worker, Bill also spent many years with Crockery Creek Turkey Farm and numerous summers at Swanson Pickle, where he was able to put his “Mr. Fix It” skills to good use. Additionally, Bill had the opportunity to assist on a number of technology startup and growth organizations as both a consultant and as director. His experience in operations, finance, and technology, paired with his demeanor, brought people together in often very tense and complicated environments. His honesty and knowledge were evident and appreciated by all. Bill got things done.
As an active outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping. Many memories were made fishing at the “River House,” hunting the “Forty,” and camping with dear friends at “Rocky Island.” A teacher at heart, Bill enjoyed any opportunity to pass on his knowledge to others; in the kitchen, helping friends with home-improvement projects, or as a guide on Muskegon Community College student trips to Gettysburg and Vicksburg. Most importantly, Bill was a loving and supportive father and friend. A consistent face in the crowd of an event, a phone call after a long day, or a laugh over a drink, Bill was always there. A word of encouragement, or some unsolicited advice, Bill was prepared with either. Bill will be remembered as a storyteller, a man with a gracious and generous heart, and a great friend to many.
He will be dearly missed by his children: Paul Leszinske and Amy Schutte; his son-in-law, Zach Schutte; and beloved grandson, William. He leaves behind three siblings: Alan (Kim) Leszinske, Lynne (Michael) Paliwoda, and Gail (Curt) Collard; and many nieces, nephews and many precious lifelong friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Helen “Lou” (Geyer) Leszinske, as well as his stepfather, John Meyers.
Bill’s funeral will be held on Monday, July 15, 2024, at 11:00 AM at The Ravenna Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 3570 Thomas St, Ravenna, MI, 49451. Visitation will begin an hour prior to the service. Family would like to extend a special thank you to Pampered Auto, American Kidney Foundation, and Life Circles. These organizations were wonderful in their delivery of services. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Conklin Reformed Church. Bill was grateful for their many prayers. Please sign the family’s online guestbook and share memories at sytsemafh.com.
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